HoCo Happenings: November 22 - December 5

Here’s your round up of events happening around Howard County in the next two weeks. Enjoy!


KIDS AND FAMILY


ENVIRONMENTAL ADORNMENTS

Robinson Nature Center, 6692 Cedar Lane, Columbia 21044
Saturday November 23  | 2:30-3:30pm | Free with admission or annual pass | ages 2-9

Join Beth Yashnyk, Port Discovery’s Visual Arts Specialist, on an exciting jewelry making adventure! Using materials found around Robinson Nature Center, children and families will examine new and exciting ways to turn nature into wearable art! While learning about the natural world around us, Robinson’s guests will learn how to turn everyday objects into functional works of art.

THE ART IN EARTH

Robinson Nature Center, 6692 Cedar Lane, Columbia 21044
Saturday November 23  | 2:30-3:30pm | Free with admission or annual pass | ages 2-9

Join staff from Port Discovery Children’s Museum to examine our world through the arts. Participate in an interactive “pop-up” performance that follows nature’s expert builders as they spin a cobweb. Explore the grounds and gather natural objects to create unique works of art inspired by nature. Supported by the Howard County Council on the Arts, tickets available on a first-come, first-served basis.

HARRY POTTER FEAST IN THE GREAT HALL

Elkridge Furnace Inn and Garden House: 5745 Furnace Ave, Elkridge, Maryland 21075
Saturday
November 23 | 5:30-8:30pm | $62.50  | all ages

Witches, Wizards, & Muggles alike, come join us for an enchanting themed dinner in our own Great Hall! Come dressed in Hogwarts robes or muggle attire! Readings from J. K. Rowling’s magical novels between each themed course. Dobby's Donations: Bring new socks, gloves, hats etc to be donated ahead of the cold season! All aboard the Hogwarts Express! Appetizer course, Insalata Vegetariana, Petite salad in center with pumpkin pasties & Weasley wedding canapés.

DRIVE THROUGH THE LIGHTS

Merriweather Symphony Lights: 10475 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia 21044
November 27-January 1 | 6-7:30pm | $10 in advance, $15 at entrance, under 3 free  | all ages

The Symphony of Lights has been a time-honored Howard County holiday tradition set in historic Merriweather Post Pavilion. Made up of more than 300,000 bulbs, this family-oriented spectacular is a dazzling display of larger-than-life animated and stationary holiday light creations. A portion of proceeds from this event benefit the Howard County General Hospital.

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE

Howard County Living Farm Heritage Museum: 12985 Frederick Rd, West Friendship, 21794
November 27-January 1 | 6-7:30pm | $10 in advance, $15 at entrance, under 3 free  | all ages

Come by and check out a part of local history!! Stop by the Hebb House between 12pm-3pm to view our holiday train garden, enjoy some light refreshments, and take a tour through The Museum. Step back in time to see how our community used to live. Fun for the whole family!! Free admission

MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET - HAMPDEN LIGHTS - OPENING NIGHT

Miracle on 34th Street: 700 W 34th St, Baltimore, MD 21211
November 30-January 1 | 6-7:30pm | $10 in advance, $15 at entrance, under 3 free  | all ages

One of Baltimore's most-popular annual events, Miracle on 34th Street / Hampden Lights, kicks off Saturday, November 30 and runs through December 31. Inflatable snowglobes, musical trains and blinking angels adorn homes. A few even allow visitors to peek inside. Lights are on every night from Thanksgiving weekend to January 1, including Christmas Eve.

FESTIVE FAMILIES WALK

Merriweather Symphony Lights: 10475 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia 21044
Sunday, December 1 | 5:30-8:30pm | $12 in advance, $15 at entrance, under 3 free  | all ages

Experience the Lights up close with your family, friends or group with the Symphony of Lights Festive Families walk through! Strollers and wagons are welcome. Dogs are not permitted.


ADULTS


THANKSGIVING FOOD AND WINE PAIRING

The Wine Bin: 8390 Main Street, Ellicott City 21042
Friday, November 22 | 7pm | $40 ($10 credit towards purchase) | 21+

In this class we explore the essential flavor profiles for food and wine as well as the 9 basic rules everyone should know for successful wine pairings. We will then taste many of the classic food and wine pairings and discuss why they work and learn to match food and wine like a professional chef or sommelier. Call the Bin with questions! 410-465-7802.

MISTLETOE AND MOONLIGHT MAKERS MART

Robinson Nature Center, 6692 Cedar Lane, Columbia 21044
Friday November 22  | 6-9:30pm | Free | All ages

If you want to "opt outside" on Black Friday and avoid hectic trips to the mall, join us for an enjoyable evening of holiday shopping at the Robinson Nature Center the Friday prior! Local artisans and makers offer handmade and sustainable wares. Science, space and nature-themed children's gifts available. "Try-it" game room, decorated tree raffles and self-guided trail walks under the moon.

BIG BATCH/PARTY COCKTAILS

The Wine Bin: 8390 Main Street, Ellicott City 21042
Saturday, November 23 | 2pm | $30 ($10 credit towards purchase) | 21+

This class focuses on cocktails that are meant to keep the host out of the kitchen or bar and out to mingle with family and friends. These cocktails can be made by the pitcher, carafe or beverage decanter in advance and are sure to please any crowd. Call the Bin with questions! 410-465-7802.

TRIVIA NIGHT AT THE COMMON KITCHEN

The Common Kitchen: 12250 Clarksville Pike, Suite A, Clarksville MD 21029
Thursday December 5 | 6:30-8:30pm | Free | All ages

Every Thursday is Trivia Night at the Common Kitchen! Come out for tough questions, delicious food, and fun company. Teams can consist of 1-4 players, and it’s free to play.